Head trauma bandage cap and method

ABSTRACT

An emergency head trauma bandage cap with a detachable strap system and method of use, which, when applied to the head, delivers minimal pressure to control bleeding, doesn&#39;t compromise cervical spine immobilization, allows for fast and effective application of cooling gel to control intracranial/internal swelling or hot packs to prevent hypothermia in non-trauma situations, doesn&#39;t come apart during treatment and transport, and doesn&#39;t require a caregiver to re-wrap the dressing.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part patent application of thecontinuation-in-part patent application entitled “Head Trauma BandageCap and Method”, Ser. No. 13/560,410, filed Jul. 27, 2012, which is acontinuation-in-part patent application entitled “Helmet Trauma Bandageand Method”, Ser. No. 12/807,288, filed Sep. 10, 2010, which is acontinuation-in-part of a continuation-in-part patent application of thecontinuation-in-part patent application entitled “Head Trauma Bandageand Method”, Ser. No. 12/586,431, filed Sep. 22, 2009, which is acontinuation-in-part of the patent application entitled “Head Trauma CapBandage”, Ser. No. 12/156,512 filed Jun. 2, 2008.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field

The present invention relates to bandages and trauma treatment. Inparticular, it relates to a method of use and an emergency traumabandage cap with or without pouches for hot or cold packs, which isplaced on the cranium to cover the crown, forehead, back of the head,sides of the head around the ears, and the temples of an injured patientwith minimal movement of the neck and spine.

Description of Related Art

Various bandages are known in the art. Boukanov et al., U.S. Pat. No.6,762,337 issued Jul. 13, 2004 discloses a multi-purpose pressurebandage for body wounds utilizing an expansion bladder, which inflatesto compress an affixed bandage against an injured patient's wounds. TheBoukanov et al. specifically states its system design is to provide apressure dressing. To apply pressure, the device incorporates the use ofa carbon dioxide gas container with an inlet valve for inflating abladder in the bandage on site to apply additional pressure (resistancepressure or inflating to create pressure) to the wound to controlbleeding.

The Boukanov et al. embodiment for head wounds has the compressionbandage shaped like a cap to secure about the head. The Boukanov et alhead bandage configuration has a bladder with a coextensive gauzebandage liner and a gas cartridge hidden in a pouch at a bottom edge.Elongated straps extend diametrically from the bottom edge for securingthe dome-shaped pressure bandage to a head injury. Once in place, thebladder of the bandage is inflated to apply pressure to the wound.Although the application of pressure to control bleeding is taught to bethe standard when treating soft tissue injuries, it is contraindicatedwith regard to bleeding associated with a head injury, requiring onlygentle pressure.

Boukanov et al.'s compression bandage is not suitable for head injuries.Head injuries are usually associated with intracranial swelling, whichcauses excess pressure on the brain and towards the skull. Pressuretreatment similar to Boukanov et al. applied to a head injury throughcompression compounds the problem of internal pressure to the brain andskull. Through this compression method the pressure applied by treatingthe injury creates even more pressure on the brain, and this can lead toa rapid deterioration of the condition of the patient. In addition,long-term and permanent brain damage can occur from the application of apressure dressing, which, in the worst case, can lead to the death ofthe patient.

The standard of treatment for a head injury is to apply gentle pressurefor controlling bleeding, and for applying a cold pack to controlintracranial swelling associated with head trauma. The idea of applying“gentle pressure” is to not exceed the amount of pressure being exertedinside the cranium resulting from head trauma.

The present invention discussed below is designed to be consistent withthe standard for treating head injuries, and does not have anysimilarities with the Boukanov et al bladder compression system withregard to its application. It does not have any features, which createexcess pressure, compromise cervical-spinal precautions or in any otherway challenge the well being of the patient with a head injury.

If the Boukanov et al. bladder pressure regulator fails, it also mayresult in significant pressure, which can cause serious head injurieswhere intra cranial fluids build up causing the head to swell. Inaddition, if improperly inflated, circulation may be cut off. Thebandage also suffers from compression problems if the gas container isempty, or fails to inflate the bladder. Under these circumstances, theBoukanov et al pressure bandage may aggravate the patient's headinjuries. Further, if the Boukanov et al. bladder is piercedaccidentally during emergency use, an ill-fitting head wrap results.

Lundell et al., U.S. Design Patent, Des. 295,446, issued Apr. 26, 1988is a head bandage protector that would require first conventionallywrapping the patent with bandages, which may compromise cervical spineimmobilization depending upon how the bandage wraps are administered.

Fye, U.S. Pat. No. 5,031,609, issued Jul. 16, 1991 is a postoperativecompression bandage for the head, which would also require conventionalbandaging before compression application; again possibly compromisingcervical spine immobilization.

Neither Lundell et al, nor Fye are bandages with a weather resistantcover for rapid application in the field to avoid moving the neck orspine during emergency trauma applications.

Cited for general interest are: Sherwood, U.S. Pat. No. 5,044,031,issued Sep. 3, 1991 discloses passive warming articles for traumatizedindividuals suffering from hypothermia, shock or exposure. Kun, U.S.Pat. No. Des. 354,376, issued Feb. 14, 1995 discloses a head-coolingcap. Hujar et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,557,807 issued Sep. 24, 1996discloses headwear including coolant means. Ameer, U.S. Pat. No.6,228,041, issued May 8, 2001 discloses a lightweight portable scalpvibrating and hair growth-stimulating device. Komachak, U.S. PublicationNo. US2007/0074326, dated Apr. 5, 2007, discloses a headgear withcooling device formed using a woven or non-woven material. Wang, U.S.Pat. No. 4,744,106, issued May 17, 1988 discloses an engineering capwith fan device structure for ventilation of the hard hat. Augustine etal., U.S. Pat. No. 5,860,292 issued Jan. 19, 1999 discloses aninflatable thermal blanket with head covering for convectively coolingthe body. Robinson et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,678,896, issued Jan. 20, 2004discloses a sports towel. Ronquillo, U.S. Pat. No. 5,666,668 issued Sep.16, 1997 discloses a cap with front size adjustment and rear flap.Dixon, U.S. Pat. No. 5,960,477 issued Oct. 5, 1999 discloses a hat withfolded rim and visor. Dumas et al., U.S. Pub. No. 2005/0027227 publishedFeb. 3, 2005 discloses a disposable water resistant cover for medicalapplications. Reeves, U.S. Pat. No. 6,747,561 issued Jun. 8, 2004discloses a bodily worn device, which provides for digital storage andretrieval of a user's medical records, drug prescriptions, medicalhistory, organ donor instructions, and personal identification for usein an emergency or routine medical situation. Zucker et al., U.S.Publication No. US2005/0193491 published Sep. 8, 2005, discloses apediatric emergency transport device. McKay, U.S. Pat. No. 5,305,470,issued Apr. 26, 1994 discloses a sports band. Brisbane, U.S. Pat. No.945,839, issued Jan. 11, 1910 is a sleeping cap unsuitable for use as abandage, and may not expand sufficiently to accommodate larger heads.The elasticized Brisbane sleeping cap using elasticized side to applypressure for holding the cap onto the head could adversely affectintracranial pressure from a head wound and aggravate the wound tissuewhen slid over the head. Dixon, U.S. Pat. No. 5,960,477, issued Oct. 5,1999, is a snow hat with folded rim requiring the head to be lifted forplacement, again aggravating spinal injuries. Dumas et al. U.S.Publication 2005/0027227 published Dec. 3, 2005 is a medical disposablewater resistant cover for medical applications. Shifrin, U.S. Pat. No.5,173,970, issued Dec. 29, 1992 discloses a visored cap-type protectivesegmented helmet for bicyclists and the like, which can be used as apouch.

None of the above references provides an emergency head bandage, whichdoesn't compromise cervical spine immobilization when applied, doesn'tcome apart during treatment and transport, and doesn't require acaregiver to re-wrap the dressing. The improved invention discussedbelow can be quickly applied as a bandage dressing to control bleedingand/or a device to hold cold packs in place to gently controlintracranial pressure. These features can be used separately or inconjunction with a single application of the cap, depending on themedical needs of the patient with regard to head trauma. The inventiondescribed below provides such an invention and method of using it.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention comprises a trauma bandage cap and method. It isstructured as a flexible cap with periphery edges, segments, and anopening sized to fit about and cover the forehead/crown, sides, and backof the head of a patient with a head trauma. The cap segments proximatethe ears define ear observation cutouts to reveal any fluid dischargefrom the ears.

The cap is constructed of absorbent, medical-grade materials that have anon-adherent layer positioned directly in contact with the head or skin.The cap is made of materials with enough flexibility when placed on apatient and strapped with a chinstrap to apply minimal pressure to thehead to control bleeding without aggravating intracranial pressure.

Exterior pouches may or may not be affixed to the exterior of theflexible cap and structured to removably receive and secure therein hotor cold packs. The type of pack is selected depending upon whether coldapplications are required to stop further swelling, or whether hotapplications are required to help prevent hypothermia in non-head traumasituations.

Alternatively, on demand cool-packs may be employed into the flexibletrauma bandage cap. The on-demand cool feature requires a Two-Partchemistry. One is a solid that would be incorporated into an interiorlayer and the second is a liquid reservoir, pouch or ampule. Thisreservoir is broken to release the fluid, which starts an endothermicreaction, cool. The reservoir would be activated prior to placing theTrauma bandage cap on the patient, or could be activated when in-use.Multiple zones could be designed, left/right or front/back for example.The cooling effect is temporary (15-min or so) and the product remainssingle-use.

In one embodiment, there are four exterior pouches positioned to coverrespectively the forehead/crown, back and sides of the head. Each pouchis structured with top openings leading into interiors into which hot orcold packs are inserted and secured therein with openable fastenersbefore subsequent removal. A detachable strap system is releaseablyaffixed to the cap periphery edges and structured to fit securely acrossa patient's chin to hold the cap in place in a manner which appliesminimal pressure to control bleeding, but can also be loosened andre-attached to prevent circulation restriction and avoid aggravatingintracranial pressure.

The periphery segments of the cap are cut in such a way to expose theears with openings on both sides of the cap to allow for observation ofthe ear canals. In one embodiment, a removable chinstrap affixed withhook and loop strips fits across the chin of the patient and is securedto the cap on either side of the ear openings. This allows the chinstrapto be properly secured to the patient from both sides. Further, thechinstrap may be affixed in a manner so that the opening of theobservation holes may be varied in size as the strap fastener is variedin position.

Preferred fasteners are hook and loop strips, but other fasteners, suchas snaps, hooks, buttons, etc. could be used to secure the strap ends.However, these are more complicated to use in the field, and are moreexpensive and difficult to adjust.

One embodiment of this cap includes an impermeable film which forms theouter layer, and an inner layer formed of a suitable soft textile ornonwoven material. On one side of this nonwoven material an aperturednet known as a “non-adherent wound contact layer” would be affixed insome manner, preferably laminated, to the inside surface which would bein contact with the patient's wound.

The impermeable film, which forms the outer layer may include layers offilm and reinforcing and/or cushioning materials, which together form acomposite structure. Film offers the advantage of providing a barriertoward the penetration of bacteria, pathogens or contaminants. The idealproduct is a monolithic barrier film, which allows air permeability butresists fluid penetration. When such a layer is placed over the skin,moisture or perspiration from the skin can escape. This type ofwaterproof-breathable film is also a bacterial and viral barrier andthere are no holes or direct passages thru the monolithic film layer.Moisture passes thru the molecular structure, which is hydrophilic andmoisture-permeable. Polyurethanes, polyesters (such as DuPont'sHytrel®), block-copolymers, and blends, are generally used in suchwaterproof-breathable films. A “barrier-dressing” feature results asexterior particles, fluids and pathogens cannot penetrate from theoutside toward the patient.

The cap thus is a composite structure with conformability. The basicmaterial composite construction remains the same, but the thickness hasbeen reduced for added conformability. This requires a carefuloptimization of process conditions to allow the attachment of thewaterproof breathable outer urethane to the low melt-point wound contactsurface. Thickness is reduced and flexibility is increased. A bettertrauma bandage cap results. Typical thicknesses and stiffness criteriaare shown in the table below:

Improved Improved with with absorbent - absorbent - Individual RawOriginal Improved Dry Wet** Material Thickness inches* inches* inches*inches* Film 0.004 0.004 0.004 0.04 Nonwoven 1 0.074 SAF absorbent layer0.018 0.064 Nonwoven with 0.032 0.032 0.032 0.032 Non-Adherent LayerThickness as a 0.074 0.028 0.040 0.090 composite *Measured with an AmesGauge, 10-oz load 1-inch diameter measurement area **3-min exposure to0.9% saline, same load as above

In this same embodiment, the inside layers are formed of a suitable softtextile or nonwoven material. Traditional bleached cotton gauze issuitable for the interior wound-contact layer but there are otheralternatives. Several nonwoven fabrics are suitable, especiallyhydro-entangled and needle-punched materials. The fiber blend can rangefrom cotton or rayon to Lyocell (Lenzing's Tencel®) to polyester orpolypropylene. Many blends are possible as are fibers of differentdiameters. Hydrophilic and or hydrophobic fibers or chemical treatmentscan be utilized. A preferred material is a polyester/rayonneedle-punched blend in the weight range of 100 to 200 grams/squaremeter. On one side of this material is laminated an apertured net knownas a “non-adherent wound-contact layer”. The polyolefin polymer blend ofthis layer provides a hydrophilic surface that resists attachment towounds while allowing fluids and moisture to easily pass thru the voidsand into the needle-punch layer or other absorbent layer(s). Thisgeneral structure is utilized in many finger bandages and 4″×4″ pads forfirst aid use.

For fluid management, a thin nonwoven layer selected to provideadditional blood holding capacity is employed similar to that used forpanty-liners, baby diapers and new wound care dressings. This addedstructure (layer) is embedded in all or part of the composite capstructure. It utilizes the fibrous format of superabsorbent polymer(SAP) chemistry. The fiber SAP, often called Super Absorbent Fiber(SAF), is soft, flexible and eliminates possible contamination fromgranular formulations. The fibrous SAP layer can be hydrated and chilledor frozen to provide an extended duration cooling device that is alreadyformed into the head shape for this specific application. Many physicaltherapy cool packs utilize a similar technology now. Those pads orshaped articles are reusable. A pre-chilled Trauma Beanie would be asingle use item. Materials cost increases are minimal. The drawback isthe requirement to pre-cool the device, making it particularly suitablefor hospital use where cooling facilities are readily available.

Another possible material used in the construction of the cap, could bea cotton Spandex, Lycra or elastane synthetic fiber known for itsexceptional elasticity. It is stronger and more durable than naturalrubber. It is a polyester-polyurethane copolymer (such as Dupont'sLYCRA®), a man-made elastane fiber. Never used alone, but always blendedwith other fibers, it has unique stretch and recovery properties. LYCRA®fiber adds comfort, fit, shape retention, durability and freedom ofmovement. This is achieved by the unique properties of the fiber, whichcan be stretch up to seven times its initial length before springingback to the original position once tension is released. Any natural orman-made fibers can be mixed with LYCRA® fiber. Very small amounts ofLYCRA® fiber in a material can be as little as 2%. There are variousways of integrating LYCRA® fiber with other fibers to provide fabricsfor all needs.

As many wounds have been exposed to dirt and pathogens, it may also beadvantageous to utilize an infection-control strategy. In theseembodiments, traditional silver-ion releasing antimicrobials may be usedand are recognized as effective in reducing bacterial populations andthus infections. Antimicrobials more rapid than silver includestabilized Hydrogen Peroxide, quaternary amines and oxidizers likeiodine, chlorine or chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG). The antimicrobial maybe placed in the non-adherent net, the absorbent layer and/or in thewaterproof-breathable outer layer. A preferred system is 200 ppm ofelemental silver in the Polyurethane polymer blend of the “0.004” thickouter layer.

For some cap materials, preferred construction is with ultrasonicseaming and welding, as it does not use needles and thread, eliminatingcolor changes, thread unraveling, and penetrations in the protectiveouter layer. Seam welding is particularly suited to secure inner gauzeliners to the shell to prevent frayed ends. It is also useful to jointhe sections of the outer shell. These ultrasonic sewing machines, whichfunction by high frequency vibrating and heating outer layers ofmaterial, which then fuse, are also suited for use in clean roomproduction facilities.

However, where cotton fabrics are used, conventional sewing is employedusing hook and loop strips, rivets, snaps, and adhesive tape. For othermaterials, ultrasonics, heat and pressure and hot melt methods ofassembly may be employed. An alternative to ultrasonic welding is radiofrequency or RF welding which welds via internal heating of thematerials and layers, which fuse.

A permanently flexible adhesive may also be used for assembly. This isnot tacky like a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), but is curedin-place with a UV cure adhesive that is flexible and differs from mostUV cure adhesives, which are hard and brittle when cured with a highintensity traditional curing system emanating heat at or above the meltpoint of the urethane, causing holes and puckering. Instead, a low-powerLED is used to generate the desired UV cure wavelength, which does notemit sufficient harmful heat to distort the finished product. UVexposure and cure is effectuated without the lengthy exposure time ofolder systems, which is now reduced to several seconds. The new UV cureoffers almost immediate curing (crosslinking) of the flexible adhesive.In one embodiment, the cap may be color-coded and then placed on thepatient to indicate the severity of a patient's injuries and/or theproper positioning of the cap on the patient. Color codes are also usedto identify patients who have been given a medication or treatment,which requires special handling by emergency trauma teams. This isparticularly important for field disasters requiring triage colorcategorization. In advanced triage systems, secondary triage istypically implemented by paramedics, emergency medical technicians,battlefield medical personnel or by skilled nurses in the emergencydepartments of hospitals, and during disasters where injured people aresorted into five categories (note; categories and color coordinates mayvary according to regions and other requirements dictated by policy:

Black/Expectant (Monterey County, Calif. category is “Morgue,”Pulseless/Non-Breathing)

They are so severely injured that they will die of their injuries,possibly in hours or days (large-body burns, severe trauma, lethalradiation dose), or in life-threatening medical crisis that they areunlikely to survive given the care available (cardiac arrest, septicshock, severe head or chest wounds); they should be taken to a holdingarea and given painkillers as required to reduce suffering.

Red/Immediate (same in Monterey County, Calif.)

They require immediate surgery or other life-saving intervention, andhave first priority for surgical teams or transport to advancedfacilities; they “cannot wait” but are likely to survive with immediatetreatment.

Yellow/Observation (Monterey, Calif. category is “Delayed,” Serious,Non-Life Threatening)

Their condition is stable for the moment but requires watching bytrained persons and frequent re-triage, will need hospital care (andwould receive immediate priority care under “normal” circumstances).

Green/Wait (walking wounded) (Monterey County, Calif. category is“Minor”)

They will require a doctor's care in several hours or days but notimmediately, may wait for a number of hours or be told to go home andcome back the next day (broken bones without compound fractures, manysoft tissue injuries).

White/Dismiss (walking wounded)

They have minor injuries; first aid and home care are sufficient, adoctor's care is not required. Injuries are along the lines of cuts andscrapes, or minor burns.

By color coding the bandage wraps by attaching triage tags to them oractually employing different colored caps, traumatized patients canquickly be directed for appropriate care.

The head trauma bandage cap for covering a head wound of a patient isused by affixing over a traumatized patient's head, a flexible cap with

i. periphery edges, segments, and an opening sized to fit about andcover the forehead, crown, sides, and back of the head of a patient witha head trauma; the cap segments on the sides have cut outs around theears to allow observation of the ear canal and reveal any bleeding orexcretion of cerebrospinal fluid through the ears, and the cap edges,

ii. a sterile, or sterilizable, apertured net known as a “non-adherentwound contact layer” is affixed in some manner to the inside of theouter layer if the inside of the trauma bandage cap cannot be used fornon-adherent wound contact; said layers would make up a cap with enoughflexibility when applied with the straps to apply minimal pressure tothe head to control bleeding without aggravating intracranial pressure,

iii. exterior pouches that may or may not be affixed to the exterior ofthe flexible cap structured to removably receive and secure therein hotor cold packs, and

iv. a detachable strap system releaseably affixed to the cap peripheryedges and structured to pass across a patient's chin to secure the capwith adjustable, fastening ends about the head in a manner to applyminimal pressure to control bleeding and loosened and re-attached toprevent circulation stoppage and avoid aggravating intracranialpressure.

The detachable one-piece strap system passes across the patient's chinand is then secured with corresponding hook and loop strips adjacent tothe ear observation openings to hold the head trauma bandage cap againstthe patient's head to apply minimal pressure to stop bleeding and allowthe cap to be sized properly to the patient's head.

A Chin Strap with enhanced stretch may be included. A nonwoven structureis processed to impart a mechanical micro-crepe, which provides improvedpatient comfort. The micro-crepe treatment also allows conformity andflexibility around the contours of the face, chin, etc. It's importantto note that elastic or stretch materials are not required in thisapproach. The nonwoven fabric of the chin-strap contains thermoplasticfibers at 30% or greater. When exposed to the heat and pressure of themicro-crepe compaction process, these thermoplastic fibers are heat setinto a folded or creped format. Suitable thermoplastic fibers includepolyesters, and polyolefins, which provide sufficient elongation whengently stretched. A 15-40% elongation factor is preferred. Thismicro-creped material still allows welding or gluing to the traumabandage cap on one side while attaching to a micro-hook landing pad onthe other end. This micro-hood material is related to traditional hookand loop strips, but the hooks are so small they are difficult to feel.Gripping power and the ability to release and reattach remain. MicrexCorporation, Walpole Mass., is a traditional supplier of equipment andprocessing for the micro-creping process. The preferred chin-strapmaterial is a 55 gsm hydroentangled nonwoven with a 70/30polyester/rayon blend. J. Holm and several other nonwoven suppliersmanufacture this and similar products.

Where head or spinal injuries are present or suspected, the patient isimmobilized first before applying the head trauma bandage cap. Inaddition, different colored triage tags used in conjunction with headtrauma bandage caps to indicate different triage categories may beapplied to indicate the severity of a patient's injuries, and areselectively applied to a patient to indicate the type of medicalresponse required.

The method of using a head trauma bandage cap exterior pouches also mayvary to accommodate removable hot or cold packs, which are selectivelyemployed. When needed to reduce swelling cold packs are applied. Topreserve body heat in non-head trauma situations hot packs are applied.

The flexible head trauma bandage cap allows the head to swell fromcranial pressure, but provides sufficient contact with the wound tominimize bleeding. It is particularly suited for emergency field use,where rapid stabilization of a patient is required for transport. Minorcuts on the head often bleed heavily because the face and scalp havemany blood vessels close to the surface of the skin. This bleeding isalarming, but often the injury is not severe and the bleeding will stopwith modest pressure treatment. Head wounds encountered in the fieldmust be quickly covered to minimize bleeding to stabilize the patientfor rapid transport for emergency treatment. Traditional bandagingrequires multiple strips of gauze or sterile wrappings to be wound aboutthe patient's head. This is often time consuming and often requires thehead to be repeatedly lifted or moved, which can aggravate or severelycompromise spinal injuries.

The Boukanov type inflatable compression bandage may aggravate openwounds by applying too much cranial pressure. The present flexible headtrauma bandage cap is quickly applied over the cranium in a manner,which does not compromise cervical spine immobilization that can occurwith conventional bandage wrapping. It not only controls bleeding, butit does not overly apply excessive pressure on the wound to restrictcirculation or aggravate intracranial pressure.

If head swelling occurs, the flexible head trauma bandage cap's securingstraps may be loosened and re-affixed to prevent increasing intracranialpressure.

It also has sufficient size, when secured, to accommodate swelling andhold the cold packs placed in pouches in place about the patent's headfor closed dermal head injuries (hematomas) to control swelling. Theseexternal pouches may or may not be attached around the cap exterior intowhich the cold packs may be inserted to avoid contaminating the dressingliner or producing an ill-fitting wrap bandage.

The head trauma bandage cap will be contained within a sterilepackaging, which would be removed just prior to use.

As the head trauma bandage cap is a single layer or layered one-piecedressing, it is designed for simple, safe and quick application to thepatient's head to control bleeding while minimizing movement to thepatient's head. The biggest challenge in treating a head injury withbleeding is to minimize movement of the patient's head while effectivelyapplying a dressing, which will treat the wound and remain secure andintact on the patient's head. In any situation involving a head injury,with or without bleeding, there is also the chance of injury to theneck, back and spinal column. While treating the patient it is extremelyimportant to minimize any action that will cause the head to move,possibly resulting in further injury to the spinal region. Protocols forthe treatment of head injuries dictate caregivers to apply a cervicalcollar around the patient's neck and then secure the patient to abackboard in order to protect the spine. In the emergency medical fieldthe trauma cap may be slid on and secured to the patient's head by onecaregiver while a second caregiver maintains cervical spinalimmobilization on the patient's head according to protocol, eitherbefore or after the patient is placed on the backboard. The properapplication of the head trauma bandage cap minimizes head and neckmovement, which reduces the chances of cervical-spinal compromise to thepatient.

With traditional methods of treating head trauma, a separate dressing isapplied to the wound followed by a wrap bandage, which is wound in sucha way as to secure the dressing to the wound. This method has itsdrawbacks as, based on the location of the wound on the head plus otherchallenges such as hair thickness, possible head movement etc., it isoften difficult to secure the bandage. This results in the bandageslipping off of the patient's head and the need to re-apply a newdressing. In situations involving major head trauma, this can becritical in terms of blood loss, head movement, spinal column compromiseand extended on-scene time.

The head trauma bandage cap is capable of being applied in such a way toquickly, safely, and effectively cover and secure whichever part of thehead needs protecting. When placed in position, it covers thetop/forehead, sides, and back of the head, which are the areascausingchallenges using traditional bandaging methods.

The invention is thus particularly suited for emergency treatment ofaccident victims with head wounds. These are quickly bandaged beforepatient transport, thereby reducing triage time. This allows the patientto be more rapidly transported to a hospital where the head traumabandage cap is quickly removed for examination and the wound treated.

The head trauma bandage cap is thus readily slid onto the head of atraumatized patient in the field. It is particularly suited to be placedin a manner to not interfere with cervical spine immobilization of animmobilized patient with spinal or neck injuries. It is fast and easy toapply to not only apply gentle direct pressure to a head wound, but alsoto control the bleeding to enable other treatment of the patient to becompleted. If bleeding is profuse and if needed, additional dressingsmay be inserted into the interior of the cap prior to its application toabsorb and control bleeding.

The invention thus provides an emergency head bandage that doesn'tcompromise cervical spine immobilization and, when applied, doesn't comeapart during treatment and transport, and doesn't require a caregiver tore-wrap the dressing.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is an opposite perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG.1.

FIG. 3 is a front view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is an opposite side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 is an opposite perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG.8.

FIG. 10 is a front view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 11 is a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 12 is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 13 is an opposite side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 16 is an opposite perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG.15.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 15 with adifferent chin strap system.

FIG. 18 is an opposite perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG.17.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a variation of the embodiment of FIG.17.

FIG. 20 is perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 17 with awider chin strap system.

FIG. 21 is a top view of the chin strap system embodiment of FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 22 with adifferent chin strap system.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the embodiment of the invention shownin FIG. 24 with the chin strap system open.

FIG. 26 is a side view of another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 27 is the opposite side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 26.

FIG. 28 is a cross section view of one embodiment of a three layer capmaterial.

FIG. 29 is a cross section view of another embodiment of a three layercap material.

FIG. 30 is a cross section view of another embodiment of a four layercap material

DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention 10, shownaffixed about the head of a patient. FIG. 2 is an opposite perspectiveview of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1. The invention 10 comprises aflexible cap 12 with enough stretch to fit about the forehead, back,sides, and upper part of a patient's head securing the cap 12 with earobservation openings 13 a, 13 b shown in FIGS. 1, 2 about the ears of apatient. Ear observation openings 13 a, 13 b expose the ears of thepatient to allow emergency responders to monitor the absence or presenceof cerebrospinal fluid and or blood, which may result from head traumato the patient.

The stretchable flexible cap 12 applies gentle compression force aroundthe head to stop bleeding, but is structured to be loosened andre-attached to prevent circulation restriction and avoid aggravatingintracranial pressure.

The cap 12 has an interior sterile dressing liner 14 preferablyconstructed of an absorbent material, such as cotton, which may stretchapproximately 20% to apply gentle pressure on a head wound. It also hassufficient give to accommodate intracranial swelling. The flexible ornon-flexible cap 12 and liner 21 have enough flex when placed on apatient to apply gentle pressure to control bleeding. It is alsoflexible to hold cold packs 15 in place, where necessary, about thepatent's head for a closed dermal head injury (hematomas).

FIG. 3 is a front view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is an opposite side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the inventionwherein the cap 12 is constructed of three panels 20, 20 a, and 20 bsewn or joined together. The cap 12 consists of three panels, a top 20a, and two side segments 20, 20 b connected to cover the forehead/crown,sides and back of the head. Ear observation openings 13 a, 13 b in theside segments 20, 20 b around the ears allow caregivers to observe anyfluid discharge through the ears. A sterile dressing liner 14 is affixedto the inside of the cap 12. The cap 12 and liner 14 are constructed ofa material with enough flex when placed on a patient to apply minimalpressure to the head to control bleeding without aggravatingintracranial pressure.

FIG. 9 is an opposite perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG.8.

FIG. 10 is a front view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 11 is a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 12 is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 13 is an opposite side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention.FIG. 16 is an opposite perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG.15. To secure the cap 12 in place, an adjustable strap 16 is included toaffix removably to the peripheral edges of the sides of the cap 12. Toremovably secure the adjustable strap 16 to the cap 12, micro-hook areas22 are affixed to the peripheral edges of the sides of the cap 12 asshown in FIGS. 15 and 16. Corresponding hook and loop strips (not shown)are then attached to the ends of the adjustable strap 16, or theadjustable strap is made of a corresponding micro-hook material toremovably secure it to the peripheral edges of the sides of the cap 12as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16.

FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate the simplest embodiment of an adjustablestrap 16, which comprises a rolled-up wide band made of a micro-hookmaterial, which is attached to the corresponding micro-hook areas 22 ofthe edges of the cap 12 positioned so that when the strap 16 isattached, it does not cover the ear observation openings 13 a, 13 b asshown in FIGS. 15 and 16. The strap 16 is initially stored in arolled-up position and secured to the micro-hook areas 22. The cap 12 ispositioned on the head of a patient, and the strap 16 unrolled andsecured in position to the micro-hook areas 22

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 15 with adifferent chin strap system. FIG. 18 is an opposite perspective view ofthe embodiment shown in FIG. 17.

FIGS. 17 and 18 employ a different chin strap system with Y shaped ends24 a, 24 b. The 24 a ends include hook and loop strips 26 whichremovably secure to the micro-hook areas 22 for strap adjustment. Theother 24 b ends are affixed to the bottom of one of the peripheral edgesof the sides of the cap 12 as shown in FIG. 18.

The Y shaped adjustable strap 16 includes three holes 27 to betterconform to the face when strapped to allow additional gentle pressure tobe applied by adjusting the hook and loop strips 26 to the micro-hookareas 22 to hold the cap 12 anchored from under the chin about the headto control bleeding.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a variation of the embodiment of FIG.17 showing larger micro-hook areas 22 to accommodate a wider Y shapedchin strap system 16 shown in FIG. 20.

FIG. 21 is a top view of the chin strap system 16 embodiment of FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention.Further cap adjustments are made with adjustable straps 28 shown in FIG.22 which adjust the size of the ear observation openings 13 a, 13 b. Oneend 28 a of adjustable straps 28 is affixed to the peripheral edge ofthe cap 12 proximate the base of the ear hole 13 a. The other end 28 bhas hook and loop strips (not shown) adapted to attach to correspondinghook and look strip proximate the opposite base of the ear hole 13 a toadjust and help fit and secure cap 12 about the ears. In this embodimentthe adjustable chin strap 18 is thus secured after looping under thepatient's chin.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the cap embodiment shown in FIG. 22with a different detachable chin strap system 16 with a chin cup 32formed by two crossing straps 34, 36 with ends 38, 40 secured with hookand loop strips 42, 44 affixed to the cap 12 periphery edges. Thedetachable strap system 16 was structured to secure the chin cup 32about a patient's chin to removably secure the cap 12 to the head in amanner to apply minimal pressure to control bleeding without aggravatingintracranial pressure in one mode, and be loosened and re-attached inanother mode to prevent circulation restriction and avoid aggravatingintracranial pressure.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the inventionemploying a D-ring chin strap 16 system to secure the cap 12 to the headof a patient.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the embodiment of the invention shownin FIG. 24 with the chin strap 16 system open.

FIG. 26 is a side view of another embodiment employing a super absorbentfiber (SAF) layer 46 instead of cold packs and pouches. The SAF layer 46is integrated within the cap 12 in lieu of the sterile dressing liner 14and may be shaped as a discrete part or panel or shaped in selectedareas only placed to absorb most fluids from head wounds. Alternatively,the SAF layer 46 may be added as an additional layer covering the entireinterior of the cap 12.

FIG. 27 is the opposite side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 26.

FIG. 28 is a cross section view of one embodiment of a three layer capmaterial. An exterior laminated film 48 covers a non-woven SAF layer 50affixed to a perforated non-absorbent wound contact interior layer 52.

FIG. 29 is a cross section view of another embodiment of a three layercap material having an exterior laminated film 48 covering a nonwovenSAF dry layer 54 affixed to a perforated non-absorbent wound contactinterior layer 52.

FIG. 30 is a cross section view of another embodiment of a four layercap material having an exterior laminated film 48 covering a nonwovenSAF dry layer 54, which covers an SAF hydrated entrapped gel layer 56secured by a perforated non-absorbent wound contact interior layer 52.

The invention 10 is readily slid onto the head of a traumatized patientin the field while maintaining cervical spine immobilization as shown.As the invention 10 is of one-piece construction, it will not come apartduring treatment or transport. It is fast and easy to apply to not onlyapply gentle pressure to the head wound, but also to control thebleeding to enable other treatments of the patient to be completed. Ifbleeding is profuse and if needed, additional dressings may be insertedinto the interior of the cap prior to its application to controlbleeding.

The above description and specification should not be construed aslimiting the scope of the claims but as merely providing illustrationsof some of the presently preferred embodiments of this invention. Thus,the claims themselves contain those features deemed essential to theinvention.

We claim:
 1. A head trauma bandage cap comprising: a. a flexible capmade of i. an exterior flexible weather resistant or waterproof materialwith periphery edges, top and sides defining ear observation openingscut out and adapted to be positioned proximate a patient's ears toenable caregivers to observe any fluid discharge from the ears andvariably secured together with a strapping system in a manner so thatthe ear observation openings may be varied in size as the strappingsystem is varied in position, and an opening sized to fit about andcover a forehead/crown, sides, and back of a head of a patient with ahead trauma; and ii. an interior made of a sterile superabsorbentpolymer non-adherent wound contact surface, with enough flex when placedon a patient to apply minimal pressure to a patient's head to controlbleeding without aggravating intracranial pressure and can be hydratedand chilled or frozen to provide and extended duration cooling device;and b. a chin strap with a nonwoven structured processed to impart amechanical micro-crepe allowing conformity and flexibility aroundcontours of the face with releasable fasteners affixed to the peripheryedges of the flexible cap and structured to secure the chin about apatient's chin to removably secure the flexible cap to a patient's headin a manner to apply minimal pressure to control bleeding withoutaggravating intracranial pressure in one mode, and loosened andre-attached in another mode to prevent circulation restriction and avoidaggravating intracranial pressure.
 2. A head trauma bandage capaccording to claim 1, wherein the flexible weather resistant orwaterproof material is laminated with layers of film and reinforcingand/or cushioning materials using a permanently flexible UV curedadhesive, which together form a flexible composite structure providing abarrier to help prevent penetration of bacteria, pathogens orcontaminants.
 3. A head trauma bandage cap according to claim 2, whereinthe flexible weather resistant or waterproof material is a monolithicbarrier film, which allows air permeability but resists fluidpenetration.
 4. A head trauma bandage cap according to claim 3, whereinthe monolithic barrier film, when placed over the skin, allows moistureor perspiration from skin to escape.
 5. A head trauma bandage capaccording to claim 1, wherein the flexible weather resistant orwaterproof material comprises a monolithic-breathable film with no holesor direct passages that acts as a bacteria and viral barrier.
 6. A headtrauma bandage cap according to claim 1, wherein the flexible weatherresistant or waterproof material is constructed of polyurethanes andblock-copolymer polyamides, and blends forming a barrier-dressing soexterior particles, fluids and pathogens cannot penetrate from outsidetoward a patient.
 7. A head trauma bandage cap according to claim 2,including a flexible fibrous nonwoven superabsorbent polymer (SAP)inside layer formed of soft textile or nonwoven material that can absorbfluids.
 8. A head trauma bandage cap according to claim 7, wherein thefibrous nonwoven superabsorbent polymer inside layer can be hydrated,chilled or frozen to provide an extended duration cooling article.
 9. Ahead trauma bandage cap according to claim 1, including antimicrobialsplaced in the absorbent sterile non-adherent wound-contact surface, anabsorbent layer, or in a waterproof-breathable outer layer to reducebacterial populations and infections.
 10. A head trauma bandage capaccording to claim 8, wherein the antimicrobials are selected from thegroup comprising traditional silver-ion releasing antimicrobials,quaternary amines and oxidizers, iodine, chlorine or chlorhexidinegluconate (CHG).
 11. A head trauma bandage cap according to claim 9,wherein an antimicrobial is 200 ppm of elemental silver embedded in apolyurethane polymer blend.
 12. A head trauma bandage cap according toclaim 1, wherein the releasable fasteners comprise corresponding hookand loop strips.
 13. A head trauma bandage cap according to claim 1,wherein the flexible cap is color-coded to indicate severity of apatient's injuries in an emergency trauma triage setting.
 14. A headtrauma bandage cap according to claim 1, wherein ends of the chin strapare Y shaped, and including three holes in the chin strap proximate thechin and sides of a patient's face to conform to the contours of theface.
 15. A method of making a head trauma bandage cap for covering ahead wound of a patient comprising: a. constructing a flexible cap withi. an exterior made of a flexible weather resistant or waterproofmaterial with periphery edges, top and sides defining ear observationopenings cut out and adapted to be positioned proximate a patient's earsto enable caregivers to observe any fluid discharge from the ears andvariably secured together with a strapping system in a manner so thatthe ear observation openings may be varied in size as the strappingsystem is varied in position, and an opening sized to fit about andcover a forehead/crown, sides, and back of a head of a patient with ahead trauma, and ii. an interior made of a sterile superabsorbentpolymer non-adherent wound contact surface, with enough flex when placedon a patient to apply minimal pressure to a patient's head to controlbleeding without aggravating intracranial pressure and can be hydratedand chilled or frozen to provide an extended duration cooling device;and b. affixing a chin strap with a nonwoven structure processed toimpart a mechanical micro-crepe allowing conformity and flexibilityaround contours of the face with releasable fasteners affixed to theperiphery edges of the flexible cap and structured to secure the chinabout a patient's chin to removably secure the flexible cap to apatient's head in a manner to apply minimal pressure to control bleedingwithout aggravating intracranial pressure in one mode, and loosened andre-attached in another mode to prevent circulation restriction and avoidaggravating intracranial pressure.
 16. A method of making a head traumabandage cap according to claim 15, including marking the flexible capwith different triage color codes to indicate severity of a patient'sinjuries in an emergency trauma triage setting.
 17. A method of making ahead trauma bandage cap according to claim 15, wherein the flexibleweather resistant or waterproof material is laminated with UV curedadhesive layers of film and reinforcing and/or cushioning materialsforming a flexible adhesive, which together form a flexible compositestructure providing a monolithic barrier film to help preventpenetration of bacteria, pathogens or contaminants.
 18. A method ofmaking a head trauma bandage cap according to claim 17, wherein theflexible weather resistant or waterproof material is a monolithicbarrier film, which allows air permeability but resists fluidpenetration allowing moisture or perspiration from skin to escape.
 19. Amethod of making a head trauma bandage cap according to claim 17,wherein the flexible weather resistant or waterproof material comprisesa monolithic barrier film with no holes or direct passages that acts asa bacteria and viral barrier.
 20. A method of making a head traumabandage cap according to claim 17, wherein the flexible weatherresistant or waterproof material is constructed of polyurethanes andblock-copolymer polyamides, and blends forming a barrier-dressing soexterior particles, fluids and pathogens cannot penetrate toward apatient.
 21. A method of making a head trauma bandage cap according toclaim 15, wherein inside layers are formed of a flexible fibrousnonwoven superabsorbent polymer (SAP) inside layer formed of softtextile or nonwoven material that can absorb fluids.
 22. A method ofmaking a head trauma bandage cap according to claim 21, wherein thefibrous nonwoven superabsorbent polymer inside layer can be hydrated,chilled or frozen to provide an extended duration cooling article.
 23. Amethod of making a head trauma bandage cap according to claim 17,including antimicrobials placed in a sterile non-adherent wound-contactsurface, an absorbent layer, or in a waterproof-breathable outer layerto reduce bacterial populations and infections.
 24. A method of makinghead a trauma bandage cap according to claim 23, wherein theantimicrobials are selected from the group comprising traditionalsilver-ion releasing antimicrobials, quaternary amines and oxidizers,iodine, chlorine or chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG).
 25. A method ofmaking a head trauma bandage cap according to claim 24, wherein anantimicrobial is 200 ppm of elemental silver embedded in a polyurethanepolymer blend.
 26. A method of making a head trauma bandage capaccording to claim 15, wherein the releasable fasteners comprisecorresponding hook and loop strips.